A three-month investigation in Oxnard led to the arrest of 52-year-old Darrell Rutledge and the discovery of significant amounts of drugs, illegal firearms, and over 20 dogs in poor conditions. On Friday (September 19), detectives from the Ventura County Sheriff’s Special Crimes Unit and Oxnard police executed a search warrant at a residence on North Ventura Road. Inside, officers seized nearly $11,000 in cash and 2.2 pounds of fentanyl, enough for an estimated 51,350 lethal doses. They also found over six ounces of cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, and evidence of drug sales.
According to KTLA, investigators recovered a stolen Winchester 30-30 lever-action rifle and a 7.62 x 39 SKS rifle. Rutledge, who has prior felony convictions, is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition. During the search, officers discovered 22 dogs, including 11 puppies, confined to small crates. Oxnard Animal Control transported the animals to the Ventura County animal shelter, with four dogs requiring immediate treatment for respiratory issues.
Rutledge faces charges of possession of controlled substances for sale, possession of an assault rifle, felon in possession of firearms and ammunition, possession of stolen property, and resisting a peace officer. The animal cruelty case remains under investigation. Authorities credit community tips for leading to the arrest and urge anyone with information on illegal drug sales or animal neglect to contact the Ventura County Sheriff’s Office or Oxnard police.
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